By Comr. Amos Oge Kalu

The Umuchoko Chokoneze Ancient Kingdom in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State has conferred the prestigious chieftaincy title of “Nwanne Di Na Mba” on Comrade Dr. Kabir Garba Tsanni, the immediate past President of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) of Nigeria.

The colourful and well-attended ceremony, held at the royal palace of the Umuchoko Chokoneze Kingdom, was marked by rich cultural displays, traditional rites, and overwhelming goodwill from community leaders, labour unions, cultural troupes, and invited guests from across the country.

In his address, the traditional ruler of Umuchoko Chokoneze described Comrade Dr. Tsanni as a bridge-builder, nationalist, and true friend of the Igbo people, noting that the title “Nwanne Di Na Mba” — meaning a brother wherever he goes — was bestowed in recognition of his outstanding contributions to national unity, labour development, and the advancement of media and arts workers in Nigeria.
The monarch further stated that Dr. Tsanni’s leadership style, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice and inclusiveness earned him the admiration of the kingdom and justified his adoption as a son of the land.

RATTAWU Nigeria was formally represented at the event by top national officers, including the “number one citizen” of RATTAWU and Vice President, UNI–MEI, Comrade Prince Emeka Kalu (Magic Fingers); the Deputy President of RATTAWU, Comrade Babangida Umar Zurmi; alongside other national and state union officials.

Speaking on behalf of the union, Comrade Prince Emeka Kalu expressed gratitude to the Umuchoko Chokoneze Kingdom for honouring one of RATTAWU’s finest leaders, describing the recognition as a testament to Dr. Tsanni’s enduring legacy in the Nigerian labour movement. He noted that the honour reflected RATTAWU’s growing national relevance and acceptance across cultural and ethnic lines.

In his acceptance speech, Chief (Dr.) Kabir Garba Tsanni thanked the traditional council, elders, and people of Umuchoko Chokoneze for the rare honour, pledging to uphold the values of brotherhood, peace, and service associated with the title. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting cultural harmony, workers’ welfare, and national cohesion.

The event climaxed with cultural dances, exchange of traditional pleasantries, group photographs, and presentation of souvenirs, with pictorials capturing the glamour, dignity, and historic significance of the ceremony now on display.

Report by Comrade Francis Izang, developed by Comr. Amos Oge Kalu for OHAFIATV.